JACKSON, Miss. (WJTV) – A special session of the Mississippi Legislature wrapped up on Thursday after lawmakers passed three bills that greenlit a $1.9 billion economic development project in Marshall County.

The project is a joint venture between Accelera by Cummins, the zero-emissions business unit of Cummins Inc., Daimler Trucks & Buses and PACCAR. They will locate advanced battery cell production operations in Marshall County.

Officials said the project will create 2,000 jobs with an average annual salary of approximately $66,000. Governor Tate Reeves (R-Miss.) said the project represents the largest payroll commitment of any major project in state history. This is also the second largest economic development project in Mississippi history.

“I can’t imagine a better way to kick off the new year than with the announcement of the largest payroll commitment and the second largest capital investment in Mississippi’s history. This historic investment by these industry-leading companies will enshrine our state at the forefront of the automotive industry for years to come and create 2,000 good-paying jobs in the process. Today’s announcement further demonstrates to the world that Mississippi is a top destination for business,” said Reeves.

Accelera, Daimler Truck and PACCAR each own 30% of, and jointly control, the joint venture. EVE Energy will serve as the technology partner in the joint venture with 10% ownership. The joint venture aims to accelerate and localize battery cell production and the battery supply chain in the U.S.

The company will manufacture battery cells for electric commercial vehicles and industrial applications, creating quality manufacturing jobs in the growing clean technology sector. 

The to-be-named joint venture’s 21-gigawatt facility will be located on a portion of the Chickasaw Trails Industrial Park Megasite near Byhalia. 

Mississippi Major Economic Impact Authority funds will be used to assist with infrastructure needs, site preparation and tax credits.